Los Angeles: On February 14, 2003, at 6:00 a.m., a pedestrian was walking in the 6800 block of Reseda Boulevard when he observed the body of a male lying on the ground. The body was that of a male next to the payphone on the lot of the Arco Gas Station on the northwest corner of Reseda Boulevard and Van Owen Street. The pedestrian flagged down a passing police vehicle and the officers noted the male was deceased and had sustained multiple gunshots to the head. The officers secured the scene and notified homicide detectives.

The investigation has revealed the victim was using the pay phone at the time he was shot. Neighbors in the area reported hearing gunshots at approximately 1:00 a.m.

The motive for the killing has not been determined and the victim has not been identified at this time. The victim is a male Hispanic, 5’ 7", 200 pounds and appears to be in his early 20’s. He was wearing a blue nylon jogging pants, a black t-shirt and slippers. He has several tattoos, including a picture of a frowning clown on his left shoulder with the name "Esmeralda" written beneath it.

The investigation is being handled by the West Valley Homicide Unit. Anyone with information is asked to call them at 818-756-8553. During off-hours and weekends, a 24-hour toll free number is available: 1-877-529-3855.

This press release was prepared by Officer Don Cox, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.